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If you’ve been keeping up with the news, or even follow celebrities on social media, you know that there is a major shift happening in America. This can also be referred to as the Zeitgeist, or the general climate of a specific period in time. America has been experiencing several dominating events that will later define this period of our lives. So, how can these events influence the fashion industry?

Who runs the world? Girls!
People thought women were done fighting for their rights in the 1920s, then again in the 1970s, but the women’s movement is back with a new message and look. After many sexual assault allegations came to light against Harvey Weinstein, celebrities have created a movement against how women are treated in both Hollywood, and the everyday workforce. They have cleverly titled it, “Time’s Up.” This movement has been made public through graphic t-shirts, and the plethora of celebrities that wore black in protest to the Golden Globes this past month. Many brands are already backing this movement by changing their marketing, and even some of their collections. This will influence trends by popularizing “Time’s Up” fundraising t-shirts, graphic empowerment t-shirts, and even revolutionizing the women’s power suit.

Dreaming of America
President Trump has tried to make immigration changes since he has entered office. A few that have stood out in recent events are DACA and the travel ban. The travel ban affected people in seven different countries. If this ban had continued it would affect fashion as a global industry. DACA also would have made it hard to introduce new designers to the fashion industry. These events will influence the fashion industry by trying to unite designers’ culture with their designs. One example would be to see the hijab as a more normalized piece of clothing for Muslim women in America.

Misery Loves Company
Hurricane Harvey, a category four storm that hit in August. It soon became known as one of the worst natural disasters in U.S. history, damaging over 200,000 homes at a cost of approximately$180 billion. A month after Hurricane Harvey, Hurricane Maria made landfall in Puerto Rico. Most recently, California has been experiencing severe wildfires that are destroying thousands of homes. These natural disasters can be caused by the climate change, which should encourage clothing companies to find eco-friendly ways of creating sustainable fashion.
Another tragedy struck in Las Vegas after a gunman fired at 22,000 people during a country concert. More than 50 people were killed and almost 500 were injured. After these tragedies many companies offered t-shirts that said “Texas Forever,” “Houston Strong,” “Vegas Strong,” and “Santa Rosa Strong” in exchange for a monetary donation.

All of these events will transition their way into the fashion industry. We will see a lot of people turning to graphic t-shirts that support movements or fundraisers. This will help them display their concern for what is happening in the world. The Time’s Up movement will continue to develop into more empowered graphic t-shirts.

Fashion is a way to express yourself, and this fall’s trends are no exception for being fun, flirty and accessible. We’ve used the “power of three” to see what will be on trend next season for all fashionistas. From velvet to metallic to earthy accents, there’s something in there you’ll fall in love with.

Crowded on a Velvet Cushion
We’ve moved on from the velour Juicy track suit days, yet velvet continues to capture the hearts of our celebrity icons such as Kendall Jenner and Victoria Beckham, so why don’t you jump on that bandwagon too?! Whether you’re designing a Pinterest-worthy living space or you have the non-existent budget of a college gal, velvet is back, better than before, and accessible for all budgets. As rich and luxe as velvet fabric is itself, bold colored velvet has made its presence known. Say goodbye to black and hello to bold blues and canary yellow. If you’re not ready to invest in those statement pieces, don’t worry, you can just sport a scrunchy until you’re comfortable.

Source: InStyle.com

I Don’t Give a Glam
The future is now! Metallic and mirrored objects are no longer futuristic. From drug store makeup to heirloom-quality furniture, you are bound to see your reflection bouncing off of something shiny. We’ll see a rise in metallic eye shadows, lip gloss with more glitter than mankind thought was possible, and furniture that won’t help distract others from that mess on your floor…you can’t hide from a mirror! You can even do others a favor by purchasing shoes with mirrored heels – they’ll thank you later when they can nonchalantly check themselves out. So, next time your compact mirror breaks, don’t throw it away, just add the pieces to something and call it a day!

Source: Topshop.com

Rock On
The new geode wedding cake trend may be rocking the internet (haha, get it?!), but soon you’ll be blowing more than just your wedding budget on geodes. From cakes and lattes to jewelry to home décor and even trending hair and nail styles, the geodes are here, and thanks to mother nature, they aren’t going anywhere. You no longer have to look for something that is both nature-made or appealing to the eye, geodes are both! If you are wanting to stay on trend but don’t have the budget, don’t fret; you can even incorporate the DIY lifestyle and make your own geode – your friends will never know it didn’t come from Neiman Marcus. Next time your friends come over, show off some geode coasters, or even a lamp, and you can set the mood with some rock music.

Source: Cheryl Saban Designs Instagram

Whether you find yourself in Target or Bloomingdale’s, you can spot these vibrant trends at all price ranges. You can DIY your geodes and call yourself Susie Homemaker, turn the mistake of dropping your mirror into something trendy, or even recycle your grandmother’s velvet, you’ll be spot on for starting the season with a bang!

In the words of Beyoncé, “Who run the world? Girls!” In the fashion world, it’s female celebrities who impact our style and taste. These stars can be divided into three categories: innovators that create original looks, leaders that popularize them with the public, and followers that…follow trends while they are hot.

More is More
If you’re not first, you’re last. Two musical sensations who pioneered their own looks were Diana Ross and Aaliyah. Ross epitomized glamour and O-T-T red carpet style in the seventies with a dramatic flair embellished with sequins and hair as big as her voice. Aaliyah was a young star that debuted when she was just 14 years old. Before her tragic death at the age of 22, she pioneered tomboy style, blurred gender lines and was years ahead of the athleisure trend we see today. She believed you could be sexy without showing every inch of your body. These women were far from minimalistic, whether that was through tracksuits and chains three times Aaliyah’s size or Diana’s affinity for lavish luxury.

Source: https://www.shrimptoncouture.com

Simon Says
Remember that whole pizza you said you couldn’t eat but then you sort of did (guilty)? Fashion leaders wear things that make us queasy at first (like too much pizza), but then can’t get enough of. Growing up as Beyoncé’s little sister would be a nightmare pair of shoes to fill, but Solange has had no problem coming up with a style and sound all her own. She is constantly changing, always wearing fierce prints, bold colors, unusual silhouettes and killer hair you can’t help but be inspired. In the same way, it’s only ugly until Rihanna says it’s not, she is fearless and she makes the impossible possible. Rihanna can, will and does wear anything and has become a beauty and style giant and if we do nothing but imitate her confidence, I say it’s a job well done.

Source: https://www.vibe.com

Channeling Disney
Okay, so no one expects you to be like Rihanna (a miracle I pray for.) Being on trend but not breaking any boundaries is not a crime, as Disney stars Zendaya and Vanessa Hudgens are living proof. Both have kept a clean image that reflects in their style on the streets or the red carpet. Vanessa is always on trend wearing mules and embroidered denim this past season and isn’t afraid to shop at Forever 21. Zendaya is inspired by other artists and while her looks may seem risky they can be easily duplicated without raising any eyebrows. The two always look amazing but aren’t willing to risk it all.

Source: http://www.eonline.com/

Fluff up those natural curls like Diana or rock your new sports bra as a top channeling Aaliyah’s athletic ease. Rock some red this fall and be in line like Vanessa or don’t be afraid to emulate celebrities you love like Zendaya. Take notes from Solange and don’t shy away from pattern or texture and as the queen Rihanna, wear whatever makes you confident. Go channel your inner star power.

WGS-wha? WGSN is World Global Styling Network, which is the crème de la crème source in forecasting for scouting out new and emerging trends. From textiles, colors, and even architecture, WGSN can predict up to three years out what’s going to be hot.

Dare to Denim

These are not your older sister’s ripped jeans! Denim on denim did not die out in the nineties. Perfect for today’s individualistic society, denim gives everyone a versatile and customizable feel. Denim with detailing and different washes in many forms such as vests, chokers, and handbags will be sure to find its way into your closet. It has already been spotted on models such as Bella Hadid and on the runways. With new brands like Good American by Khloe Kardashian and Levi’s revamped line, denim everything is back in and the only rule is ‘there are no rules’.

Source: http://coveteur.com/

Pretty, Pretty Protest

Wearing pants liberated our feminist grandmas – rock on, grandmas! But being a feminist now has broadened to include the idea of embracing your femininity and with that, we are feeling pretty, oh so pretty! Tulle skirts and sheer overlays for showing off your frills and curves are back in. This sheer trend is a result of increasing popularity among the body acceptance movement which encourages women to be confident in their own skin by showing off a little skin. Not into showing skin? That’s okay, too. Opt for some retro Mary Jane shoes to call attention to those gorgeous gams. With variations of heel shape and height, the strap is back and easily spotted on stars like Taylor Swift, a well-known 1920s enthusiast.

Source: https://www.yahoo.com/

Fab! Fit! Functional?

We’ve had a long period of athleisure that has stressed cuteness and comfort, but what about functionality? Go grab your grandpa’s old Air Force flight suit because boilers are back! Cousin to the still-trending jumpsuit, the boiler suit has ties back to World War II and was once sported by blue-collar workers. Now, you don’t need to be Rosie the Riveter to wear this suit. This look shows that you’re ready to rule the office and look fierce while doing it. In the age of tiny houses, it’s no surprise these utilitarian styles are on the rise. Functional details like oversize pockets give the perfect touch of practicality to your wardrobe, but spice up your style with added impractical embellishments and show off your individuality with chains and metal embellishments.

Source: http://thezoereport.com/

Don’t worry savvy shoppers; taking your old jean jackets and jeans and revamping them can easily make them look like they are hot off the runway. Thrift shop for some cute and comfortable Mary Janes, and make yourself a dream skirt using tulle fabric and elastic that you can find for cheap at fabric stores. Look in stores for things with chain detailing or oversized pockets. Whether you’re feeling super feminine, ready to slay the streets, or like a 90s Britney Spears, these coming up trends have something for everyone.

Robots, flying cars, and space travel are usually associated with the future, but what if I told you that technological advancements you thought you would only see in your favorite science fiction novel are already here? Currently the technological innovations we only dreamed of are prevalent within the Zeitgeist, or “spirit of the times.” With technologies such as augmented reality, facial recognition, and instant, customizable fashion soon to become commonplace in the retail industry, it’s clear that the future is happening right now!

Make Your Future Your (Augmented) Reality
Once a thing of the future, augmented reality (AR) is now a thing of the present. Companies such as Gap have developed apps using AR for consumers to see how various garments would fit before purchasing. AR is also rumored to be used in technological fashion pieces already on the market, such as Snapchat’s Snap Spectacles. While the use of AR in Snap Spectacles II has been yet to be confirmed by Snapchat, it was discovered that the company sent a patent application for AR glasses in November 2015. Before we know it, augmented reality will become just that—a reality.

Source: https://www.spectacles.com/

Take It At Face Value
Saying “cheese” will soon no longer simply be a phrase we say when taking a picture. Instead, we will soon be smiling to pay for goods, all with the help of facial recognition technology. In China, retailers are already using facial recognition cameras that allow consumers to transfer funds through their mobile devices to pay for goods. Many believe that facial recognition will cause a dramatic increase in spending, directly affecting the fashion industry. So go ahead. Smile. Buy that dress. Soon enough the two will mean the same thing.

Source: https://www.technologyreview.com

It’s My Style and I Need It Now!
In fashion, our style and individuality is often limited to the mass-produced merchandise stores offer. But what if you could have customizable fashion pieces in 90 minutes or less? This idea is soon to become a reality. At Nike’s Nike by You studio, consumers are able to customize a pair of Nike’s Presto X shoes directly on their feet and wear them out of the store only 90 minutes later. The Ministry of Supply shop in Boston is also taking advantage of this technology through a 3-D knitting machine that creates custom blazers also in just 90 minutes. Before we know it, other companies will offer instant fashion, allowing you to buy customizable merchandise ready in only—you guessed it—90 minutes.

Source: https://digiday.com

Like the fashion industry, technology is constantly changing and the high-tech dreams of the future are now making their way into the present. Whether it be augmented reality, facial recognition, or instant, customized fashion, there are many innovations that are changing not only fashion but the world. So try on that dress via AR, customize that blazer in less than 90 minutes, and pay for it all by only showing your face, because the future is now!References[Blog Post]
Alvarez, E. (2017, January 30). Gap envisions a future with augmented-reality ‘dressing rooms’. Retrieved September 30, 2017, from https://www.engadget.com/2017/01/30/gap-augmented-reality-dressing-rooms/

You’ve surely heard the saying, “To each their own.” This means that we all have the right to our own perspective, or attitude. Society’s attitude reflects the Zeitgeist, or spirit of the times. The dominating attitude of this era is an ongoing struggle between people’s desire to fit in or to stand out, to conform or stand against the norm. We can have a supportive attitude or a resistant attitude, but either way, attitudes make an impact. Today, fashion is influenced by attitudes toward the LGBT community, free speech and protest, and immigration.

Somewhere Over the Rainbow
Acceptance toward the LGBT community has been rising since the legalization of same-sex marriage during Obama’s presidency. Australia is currently going through a similar situation on whether to legalize gay marriage. Clearly, society’s attitude is changing and seeking to go against the values of the past with a favorable and positive attitude toward marriage equality and acceptance for LGBT. This will influence trends like rainbow motifs and patterns, bold colors, and color blocking. Support for trans models, gay artists, and gay designers may also increase as a result.

Say it Like You Mean It
As political tensions continue to intensify domestically and internationally, people speaking out boldly on controversial issues is increasing as well. The recent NFL protests that Kaepernick ignited by taking a knee during the national anthem have led to both attitudes of support and negative backlash. Some have commended protesters like Kaepernick for standing up against racial inequality and injustice, but many believe it is unpatriotic and disrespectful to take such a strong stance against our nation’s flag and anthem. This attitude toward freedom of speech and protest will lead to more statement and graphic pieces that express individual’s beliefs. We also may see more red, white, and blue from those who do not support the protestors.

Diversity is a Certainty
In light of political views on immigration as well as terrorist attacks around the world, diversity has become a hot topic of discussion. Attitudes shift back and forth between pro- and anti-immigration in countries like the U.K., who have been a target of several terrorist attacks this year. Many people have a negative attitude toward immigration because they are fearful. Yet, it seems that Americans are in favor of diversity and inclusion of other cultures. This attitude toward cultural diversity may lead to the incorporation of native patterns from around the globe and clothing that celebrates rather than exploits other cultures.
We all have an opinion about what is right or wrong, what we like or don’t like, and this affects the way we dress—even if it’s just subconsciously. Whether you are in support or resistance to such topics as LGBT rights, freedom of speech and protest, and immigration, you are making a statement when you wear patriotic colors, ethnic clothing, graphic tees, and rainbow print. So, will your attitude and the dominating attitude of society impact the fashion choices you make? Can you even help it?

People often say, ‘who you spend time with is who you become’ and social groups are those with whom we share common interests or values. Dominating social groups help define the spirit of the times, or Zeitgeist, by keeping a close eye and mimicking things like their favorite celebrities, television shows, and technological innovation. Whether that means fellow Swifties, your Game of Thrones watch party pals, or other techies with you in line at the Apple Store, your social group could be where the mainstream finds the next big thing in fashion.Swiftly Slithering Forward
Remember when Taylor Swift was a wide-eyed, lighthearted country singer who appeared in the Hannah Montana Movie? Oh, how the times have changed. With the release of her latest music—and the videos that accompany it—Swift will inspire some major fashion trends this fall. Keep an eye out for snake accessories, graphic tees promoting her new “Swifties” trademark, and bold pops of red. America’s little pop-country sweetheart as of only four years ago has redefined herself to an independent, edgy woman who is not here to play games, and the looks she has displayed through this metamorphosis will inspire her vast fandom to do the same.

Conquering the Iron Throne
The phrase “Winter is coming” used to be just a vague interpretation of the weather, but now these words excite millions of Game of Thrones fans to anticipate the drama, action, romance, and betrayal that keeps them on the edge of their seats. As the critically-acclaimed show continues to increase in popularity, watch as fans adopt looks straight from Westeros with an edgy, unexpected application of leather, braided hairstyles, and handmade metal statement jewelry.

You Light Up My World
The rapid growth and increased accessibility of technology has changed the way we live in ways unimagined by our great grandparents. While many of us are just excited when new emojis are released, true techies see the applications of advanced technology beyond just the phones we tightly grasp. Technological advancements will impact the fashion world not only through added features in our clothes and accessories, but also how we produce and care for our wardrobe. A handful of designers have used LED lights in their garments and footwear, and while this seems inaccessible for mainstream consumers today, in a few short years, teens may be sporting glowing gowns at prom. Will there be a day when even our clothes are synced to our phones? Only time will tell.

Even if you don’t see yourself aligning with Swifties, Game of Thrones fans, or techies, the trends they inspire can be an inspiration to you, too. Combine serpentine jewelry with a leather statement dress for an eye-catching night-out look. Rock vintage light-up sneakers at a music festival to show your techie, trendsetter side. Even a red lip and braided up-do are easy, accessible ways to apply the upcoming season’s trends. Take a page out of Taylor Swift’s book this season and don’t be afraid to reinvent your signature style.